This story was one of the first ones that I've read in class where I struggled to get through in the beginning and then as I made my way towards the end, the strong statements and reasonings made my mind go into so many directions.
At first, this place, Omela sounded like a fantasy land for people. It was a place where no one had to feel guilt or shame. They could have all the fun, drugs, beer, orgies, no wars. With no consequences. I mean I won't lie that sounds like something that people desire, but maybe not admit all the time. Maybe not desire but I'm sure those thoughts have crossed someone's mind in form or another. I was a bit shocked reading that honestly. I kept thinking, yeah right whats the catch? There has to be more to it then meets the eye.
My others thoughts initially were like, wow this story is a drag and can someone please let it end.
Then, when I began to read the paragraph describing the basement my attention was immediately in tune. I mean here we are hear these joyous things that go on in Omela, and you're like okay good for them, and yeah right type of attitude. As soon as you read about the child in the basement your heart cannot help but break and wonder how that child is down there? and if this place is so perfect then how could the people of Omela treat a child like this? It mad be very angry. Further when the author describes people who come to visit the child, who is beaten and neglected, shows that the people were in disgust. I was outraged! I kept thinking, what in pete's sake?! Afterwards, as the purpose of this child was described/revealed, I felt disgust and a million and one thoughts ran through my head. Is there no other way? Why let a child suffer so that others can have such prosperity? This reminded me so much of pragmatism point of view. Do what's best for me!
Also, I could not help but compare the child's suffering to Jesus Christ suffering for us. The price had to be paid for our sins to be forgiven, so that we can live and be free even though we sinned. God's love and everything that He does for his children surpass so much understanding. Jesus was beaten and kicked and spat on and even the images on the television do not portray the full image of his beatings. My heart breaks because it was my sin that put Him there.
"Yet it is their tears and anger, the trying of their generosity and the acceptance of their helplessness, which are perhaps the true source of splendor on their lives." This is such a profound statement and it made me have a bit of compassion for the people in Omela. Without pain and suffering, how can we know true joy and happiness and prosperity? Without sacrifice how can we know true love?
However, these people are selfish in my eyes, as well. I applaud the people who walked away from Omela because it was not an easy task to do. But to let a chid bear the pain of consequences was ethical and morally wrong in my point of view. We need to take responsibility for our actions. With that responsibility I think will be much greater gain than feeling disgust and anger towards someone else. Feeling the pain and sufferings of rejection as a person, just like Jesus felt, and overcoming those obstacles builds true joy.
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